Ukraine Sends Military Experts to Assist Middle Eastern Nations Against Iranian Threats

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has declared that Ukraine will send military specialists to the Middle East to assist nations in countering Iranian drone and missile threats. This decision follows outreach from several countries, including the United States. Zelenskyy emphasized Ukraine's valuable experience in defending against Iranian-made Shahed drones, making it a crucial ally for nations facing similar challenges. He has engaged in discussions with leaders from the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan, and Kuwait, with more talks anticipated. The move comes amid escalating tensions in the region, with Iran launching numerous missiles and drones, posing significant threats to global stability.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 5, 2026, 11:17 IST

Ukraine's Strategic Move to the Middle East

In a significant geopolitical development, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on Wednesday that Ukraine will be sending military experts to the Middle East. This initiative aims to assist countries in countering threats posed by Iranian drones and missiles, following requests from various nations, including the United States. In an interview, Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine's experience in combating Iranian-made Shahed drones and missile attacks makes it a crucial ally for nations facing similar dangers.

Recently, Zelenskyy confirmed discussions with leaders from the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan, and Kuwait. He mentioned that further dialogues with regional leaders are anticipated. 'Partners are reaching out to us for assistance against Shaheds, seeking expertise and operational support. We have also received inquiries from the American side,' he stated. He has been in contact with leaders from the Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan, and Kuwait, and more discussions with other regional figures are forthcoming. 'We are coordinating with our European allies,' he added.

In a post on the social media platform X, Zelenskyy instructed Ukraine’s foreign affairs minister, defense minister, intelligence agencies, and the secretary of the National Security and Defense Council to explore options for aiding these countries while ensuring that Ukraine's own defense remains intact.

Zelenskyy highlighted that Iran has launched over 800 missiles and more than 1,400 attack drones in just a few days, asserting that these Iranian drones and missiles pose a significant threat to free navigation and are destabilizing global oil and gas prices.

Ukraine's Role in Addressing Iranian Drone Threats

The Ukrainian President pointed out that he is in consultation with partners in Europe and the United States, having spoken with leaders from several countries bordering Iran, including the UAE, Qatar, Jordan, and Bahrain. Discussions with Kuwait and other regional nations are also on the agenda. 'All of them face a serious challenge and openly discuss it: Iranian attack drones, the same 'Shaheds' that have been targeting our cities and infrastructure throughout this conflict,' he remarked.

In a recent escalation, Iran launched missiles at Israel as aerial assaults in the Middle East entered their sixth day, following the sinking of an Iranian warship by an American submarine. Iran has threatened to destroy military and economic infrastructures across the region, leading to a rapid increase in retaliatory actions against Iran. State television even announced the postponement of a mourning ceremony for Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed at the onset of the conflict.